2004 BMW 318 vs. 1979 Peugeot 304
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Peugeot 304. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Peugeot 304 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (113 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1979 Peugeot 304. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1979 Peugeot 304. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1979 Peugeot 304. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 318 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Peugeot 304, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 BMW 318 (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Peugeot 304. (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Peugeot 304.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1979 Peugeot 304 | |
| Make | BMW | Peugeot |
| Model | 318 | 304 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 67.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 42 L |
